1996 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1986 Peugeot 309
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Peugeot 309. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Peugeot 309 would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (376 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 261 more horse power than 1986 Peugeot 309. (115 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1986 Peugeot 309. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 870 kg more than 1986 Peugeot 309. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Peugeot 309, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (580 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 447 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Peugeot 309. (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Peugeot 309. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1986 Peugeot 309 has manual transmission. 1986 Peugeot 309 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1986 Peugeot 309 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Peugeot |
Model | SL | 309 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1986 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5987 cc | 1580 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 376 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6250 RPM |
Torque | 580 Nm | 133 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 930 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2480 mm |